Patents Examined by Jacob T. Ackun, Jr.,
  • Patent number: 4961498
    Abstract: A molded two-piece suture package is disclosed which encloses and defines an oval channel in which sutures may be wound. The oval channel has two semicircular end sections connected by straight side sections. An opening in the channel is provided at the juncture of a straight section and an end section, permitting sutures to be withdrawn from the channel at the end of a straight section. In a preferred embodiment the interior wall of the channel is formed by alternating engaging sections formed in the respective package pieces. To prevent the wrapped suture from becoming entrapped when the two pieces are engaged, the top and bottom of the channel is alternately raised and lowered in alignment with the alternating wall sections, causing the wound suture to bridge those areas where it may become entrapped between the mating package pieces. Entrapment of the suture end at the outside of the channel is prevented by alternately recessing the outer wall of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1990
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Kalinski, Robert J. Cerwin, Marvin Alpern